What is the CKM team? Severity, symptoms and other details about a condition that affects 90% of American adults

Doctors in the United States are sounding the alarm because a recently recognized disease called cardiorenal-metabolic syndrome (CKS) now affects almost all American adults. In October 2025, the American Heart Association (AHA) reported that approximately 240 million adults have at least one health problem related to CKM, including high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, or kidney disease.

Experts were shocked by the fact that 88% of adults surveyed said they had never heard of CKM syndrome. Health officials fear this lack of awareness could worsen the condition across the country.

What is the CKM team?

CKM syndrome, short for cardiorenal-metabolic syndrome, is a condition that describes the interplay of heart disease, kidney disease, and metabolic problems such as diabetes. The AHA officially named the disease in October 2023 to help doctors address these diseases as one rather than separate problems.

Hospitals such as the Cleveland Clinic and Mass General Brigham describe CKM as a “full circle disorder” because malfunction in one system can cause damage in another. This constant cycle can lead to serious long-term health deterioration.

According to I SEEdamage in one area can worsen conditions in all three systems, putting people at serious risk of CKM.

Is CKM syndrome fatal?

CKM syndrome itself does not kill directly, but it increases the risk of heart attack, stroke and heart failure – the leading causes of death in the US. Johns Hopkins Medicine found that people with diabetes were as much as four times more likely to develop cardiovascular disease, one of the main findings of CKM.

The AHA warns that when multiple risk factors are present at the same time, they multiply the level of threat. Cardiologist Dr. Nidhi Kumar told CBS New York that CKM-related chronic diseases are now one of the leading causes of death and disability nationwide.

Symptoms of CKM syndrome

Symptoms of CKM vary because they develop through several systems. The Cleveland Clinic lists common warning signs such as:

• High blood pressure
• Abnormal cholesterol levels
• High blood sugar or insulin resistance
• Weight gain or obesity
• Fatigue and poor kidney function
• Swelling of the hands, feet or face
• Shortness of breath or tightness in the chest

Doctors divide CKM into five stages, from no apparent risk (stage 0) to severe, symptomatic heart disease (stage 4).

Who is the most vulnerable?

Data from the AHA and the American Kidney Fund show that older people are at greatest risk. Black Americans and people ages 20-44 also have a high risk of obesity and diabetes. A sedentary lifestyle, poor diet and family history increase the risk of developing CKM.

The AHA noted that these groups have higher rates of serious illness and require early screening to prevent complications.

Is CKM syndrome curable?

CKM cannot be cured, but it can be managed or reversed with early action. The AHA says three out of four adults can reverse CKM with medical care and lifestyle changes.

Recommended steps include balanced meals, regular exercise and close monitoring of blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Dr Sanchez urged people to check their health regularly as early intervention can prevent further damage.

How to prevent CKM syndrome

Experts say prevention depends on healthy daily habits. Eating more vegetables, fruit and whole grains while limiting salt, sugar and processed foods helps protect important organs. Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight further reduce the risk.

Doctors also emphasize routine screening for cholesterol, blood sugar and kidney function. Avoidance smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can reduce the burden on the heart and metabolic system.

The AHA found that most adults can control CFM through diet, exercise and medical guidance, a reminder that prevention remains the strongest defense against this common disease.